usher guide 2012-13 - Berkeley Repertory Theatre

Volunteer Usher Guidebook
2012-13 SEASON
The primary purpose of ushers is to ensure the safety of patrons. The delivery of impeccable service with a
smile comes next. We ask for – and appreciate – your adherence to our policies, procedures, and protocols.
They’re all designed to serve this agenda. The show only goes on with your support.
THANK YOU!
Katrena Jackson, Susie Medak
Patron Services Manager Managing Director
All volunteer ushers are required to adhere to the policies and procedures outlined in this guidebook at all
times unless otherwise instructed by the house manager on duty. Information in this booklet should be read
fully before the start of the season and referred to as needed during the year so that a consistent,
professional, and uniform set of expectations and procedures will be followed. A common-sense application
of these principles will ensure that both you and our patrons have the best possible experience during
Berkeley Rep’s 2012-13 season.
About Berkeley Repertory
Theatre…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….2
Background information to help you answer patrons’ questions
Front of House
Staff………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….………………..4
Contact information you may need
Rules and
Policies……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….5
The rules that both patrons and volunteers must follow
Volunteer
Basics…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..………….…6
What you can expect from us and what we expect of you
Volunteer Usher
Posts……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………….…...…7
Describes each post in full
Emergency
Procedures………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..…...8
Must-read for all
Yahoo Bulletin
Board………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...……….10
How to sign up and protocols for use
Usher Agreement
Letter……………………………………………………………………………………………………………………...................12
Please fill out, sign, and return
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About Berkeley Rep
As a volunteer usher, you help make our patrons’ experience
unique. Your attendance and assistance ensure that patrons
have a smooth and enjoyable visit; your customer service
and positive attitude can affect how individual patrons view
their performance and their experience. You play a crucial
role in Berkeley Rep’s success. We appreciate your
commitment and could not do what we do without your
support!
The information below about Berkeley Rep will help you
answer patrons’ questions and be a more informed
representative of the Theatre.
About Berkeley Rep
Born in a storefront on College Avenue, Berkeley Rep has
moved to the forefront of American theatre—and is still
telling unforgettable stories. Founded in 1968 by Michael
Leibert, the Theatre quickly earned respect for presenting
the finest plays with top-flight actors. In 1980, with the
support of the local community, Berkeley Rep built the 400seat
Thrust Stage where its reputation steadily grew over
the next two decades. It gained renown for an adventurous
combination of work, presenting important new dramatic
voices alongside refreshing adaptations of seldom-seen
classics. In recognition of its place on the national stage,
Berkeley Rep was honored with the Tony Award for
Outstanding Regional Theatre in 1997. The company
celebrated by unveiling a new 600-seat proscenium stage in
2001, the state-of-the-art Roda Theatre. It also opened the
Berkeley Rep School of Theatre, a permanent home for its
long tradition of outreach and education programs. The
addition of these two buildings transformed a single stage
into a vital and versatile performing arts complex, the
linchpin of a bustling Downtown Arts District which has
helped revitalize Berkeley. In four decades, four million
people have enjoyed more than 300 shows at Berkeley Rep,
including 50 world premieres. The Theatre now welcomes an
annual audience of nearly 200,000, serves 20,000 students,
and hosts dozens of community groups, thanks to 1,000
volunteers and more than 400 artists, artisans, and
administrators. In the last few years, Berkeley Rep has
helped send 14 shows to New York: Bridge & Tunnel,
Brundibar, Eurydice, Passing Strange, American Idiot, Wishful
Drinking, In the Next Room (or the vibrator play), Girlfriend,
Taking Over, In the Wake, The Great Game: Afghanistan,
Compulsion, Ghetto Klown and The Agony and Ecstasy of Steve
Jobs.
Mission Statement
Berkeley Repertory Theatre seeks to set a national standard
for ambitious programming, engagement with its audiences,
and leadership within the community in which it resides. We
endeavor to create a diverse body of work that expresses a
rigorous, embracing aesthetic and reflects the highest
artistic standards, and seek to maintain an environment in
which talented artists can do their best work. We strive to
engage our audiences in an ongoing dialogue of ideas, and
encourage lifelong learning as a core community value.
Through productions, outreach, and education, Berkeley Rep
aspires to use theatre as a means to challenge, thrill, and
galvanize what is best in the human spirit.
Audience and Supporters
Operating on a $14 million annual budget, Berkeley Rep is
one of the Bay Area’s largest performing arts organizations
and serves a regional audience of nearly 200,000 annually,
including a subscriber base of more than 13,000. The School
of Theatre’s education and outreach programs reach 20,000
students each year. Fifty percent of the Theatre’s operating
budget comes from earned income (ticket sales,
concessions, etc.), with the remainder generated by
contributed income. Berkeley Rep is governed by a board of
trustees comprising business and community leaders from
throughout the Bay Area.
Venues and Facilities
The Theatre’s facilities include the Roda Theatre, a 600-seat
proscenium stage, and the 400-seat Thrust Stage. The gift
shop is found in the Roda Theatre. The Narsai David
courtyard— located between the two theatres—can be
rented for special events. Next door, the Nevo Education
Center houses the Berkeley Rep School of Theatre, which
offers classes and activities for children, teens, and adults.
Berkeley Rep’s administrative offices and shops are at 999
Harrison Street in Berkeley.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How can I buy tickets? When is the box office
open?
Patrons can buy tickets in person at our box office, located
at 2025 Addison Street, immediately outside the Thrust
Stage. Patrons are also welcome to purchase tickets over the
phone by calling 510 647-2949, or online at berkeleyrep.org.
The box office is open Tuesday–Sunday, noon to 7pm. It is
closed on Monday. The website is available 24 hours a day,
seven days a week.
How many performances are there each week?
What time do they start?
For most productions, Berkeley Rep offers eight
performances a week. There are shows at 8pm on Tuesday,
Thursday, Friday, and Saturday; 7pm performances on
Wednesday and Sunday; and 2pm matinees on Sunday.
Additional matinees occur on alternating Saturdays and
Thursdays. However, this schedule is subject to change
depending on the production—check berkeleyrep.org or call
the box office for specific schedules.
Can I take pictures or record the performance?
Union regulations and various copyright laws prohibit the
use of cameras, video cameras, cellular phones, or any other
kind of recording device in our theatres. This includes
photos of the set taken before or after the show. During the
performance, flash photography is not only prohibited, but
could be disorienting and dangerous to the actors’ safety.
Do you offer any special presentations about
these shows, or hold any special discussions?
Berkeley Rep’s Free Speech program is a collection of events
and opportunities for theatre-lovers to gain an enhanced
understanding of the work they see onstage. Thirty-minute
docent presentations, offering a look inside each play and its
development, take place one hour before each Tuesday and
Thursday 8pm performance and after select evening
performances. Post-show discussions take place after select
Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday evening performances. Other
enrichment opportunities include a Page to Stage discussion
series with eminent theatre artists, held three times a year.
Patrons can stay informed about upcoming enrichment
events by joining our email list.
If I join your email list, will I get a lot of spam?
The Theatre sends out a monthly newsletter for subscribers
and bi-weekly updates to non-subscribers. These often
include information about upcoming events or special ticket
offers. You will also receive an email with program notes
and special information about your show by email the week
before each production you attend. We never sell or
exchange your email information, and you’re welcome to
unsubscribe at any time. Email sign-up forms can be found
in the lobbies of both theatres. It is easy to unsubscribe.
How can I work at Berkeley Rep?
Berkeley Rep has a staff of more than 200 full- and part-time
employees that work together to create the productions you
see onstage. Job postings are listed at berkeleyrep.org,
under “About Berkeley Rep.”
How can I submit a script?
Berkeley Rep accepts script submissions only from agents,
writers, and theatre artists with whom we have an existing
professional relationship. Berkeley Rep is not able to accept
any unsolicited scripts. The only exception to this policy is
for writers whose permanent address is within the Bay Area.
Those scripts will be read and assessed. Please note that
Berkeley Rep does not provide any comments or
suggestions about work that we do not intend to either
develop or produce. Please mail scripts to:
Berkeley Repertory Theatre
Attn: Literary Department
999 Harrison Street
Berkeley, CA 94710
How can I audition for Berkeley Rep?
Berkeley Rep hires performers who are members of Actors’
Equity Association (AEA). Occasionally, local, non-union
actors are hired in supporting roles or as extras in large-cast
shows. Our understudies are also drawn from the local nonunion
acting pool. Berkeley Rep holds open auditions
annually in the late spring. These auditions are announced
on the AEA hotline and through Theatre Bay Area’s (TBA)
magazine. Berkeley Rep attends the TBA general auditions
as well, which are usually held in February.
Do you offer acting or other theatre classes?
Does Berkeley Rep have an education program?
The Berkeley Rep School of Theatre offers a wide variety of
educational programs designed to enrich your theatre-going
experience and appreciation through training for the
working professional, the emerging artist, and the theatre
enthusiast. Berkeley Rep is also committed to deepening
local students’ understanding of—and participation in—the
arts, and actively responding to the recent cuts in local arts
curricula. To learn more, patrons can visit
berkeleyrep.org/school.
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Front of House Staff
PATRON SERVICES MANAGER
Katrena S. Jackson
HOUSE MANAGER
Debra Selman
ASSISTANT HOUSE MANAGERS
Natalie Bulkley
Octavia Driscoll
Aleta George
Michael Grunwald
Abigail Hanson
Ayanna Makalani
Contacting the House Manager
USHER EMAIL: ushers@berkeleyrep.org
HOUSE MANAGER OFFICE: 510 647-2992
Use this number to talk to the house manager, leave
messages when late, or if you are unable to attend due to an
emergency. Please do not call the box office with a message.
Office Hours
During the season, the house manager is usually available at
the number above Tuesdays through Sundays, two hours
before curtain. Off-season or between runs, office hours will
vary.
Website
Prospective ushers can find basic information at
berkeleyrep.org/about/ushering.asp
The usher series date chart is posted at
berkeleyrep.org/about/serieschart.asp
The series chart—like all Berkeley Rep programming—is
subject to change.
The most up-to-date information can always be found on
our website.
Or you can use the site map to find answers to your
questions at
berkeleyrep.org/sitemap
Yahoo Groups
groups.yahoo.com/group/brtushers
The Yahoo Group is where season ushers can post for
substitutes and where substitute ushers can find available
spots during the year. Every usher must register and sign up
to access the Yahoo Group. It’s free and remarkably easy to
use. Important announcements will be posted on the site
from time to time, as well as additional volunteer
opportunities. This is a private site, accessible only to
approved ushers in the Berkeley Rep usher program.
4

House Rules & Policies
Food or Drink
New: Patrons may now bring concession beverages
with lids (no wine glasses). Cans and beer bottles
are admissible. Guests are welcome to eat and drink in
the lobby or courtyard.
No Cameras or Recording Devices of any kind
This is for a variety of reasons. First, copyright law strictly
prohibits the taking of images of copyrighted material (the
sets, props, etc.). Even if the guest is taking a picture of the
stage before the show, or if they are taking a picture of their
friends and the stage is in the background, this is a violation
of the rule. Second, camera flashes can be dangerously
distracting to performers, who rely on lighting cues. Finally,
cameras are just plain annoying to other patrons. If you see
a patron using a camera, please notify the house manager.
Aisles must remain clear at all times
Not only is this a safety precaution, it allows guests to move
about the Theatre as easily as possible. Wheelchairs,
crutches, strollers, baby carriers, bags, etc., must be kept
under the seat or in designated storage areas.
No Patron permitted Onstage or Backstage
At times, an usher will be stationed at a “security position”
to reinforce this rule. If guests want to meet performers,
direct them to the Narsai David Courtyard, and instruct
them to wait by the stairs. Rarely, there will be a postperformance
reception in the green room, and selected
guests will need to get there. If this is the case, the house
manager will give you further information to help direct
patrons.
John C. Mendel Room
The John C. Mendel Room, located on the second floor of
the Roda, is Berkeley Rep’s donor lounge, reserved for
donors who contribute $1,000 or more to Berkeley Rep
annually. They have access to it before a performance or at
intermission. There is a restroom they can use that is
accessible only from the John C. Mendel Room (or from
backstage). We offer donors at this level complimentary
coffee, wine, and treats.
Late Seating (is a safety issue)
Late seating is at the discretion of the house manager.
Berkeley Rep’s late seating policy is printed on the back of
each ticket and posted in the lobby. If the show has started,
the house manager can deny entry to late guests. However,
we make every effort to seat latecomers.
No Children under Seven Years of Age
Most Berkeley Rep productions are inappropriate for
children under the age of seven. This includes babies. House
management will advise you if there are additional concerns
about age-appropriateness for particular productions.
No Smoking
To protect the health of everyone who uses Berkeley’s
public areas, new and expanded smoking restrictions went
into effect on May 22, 2008. Smoking is prohibited in all
commercial zones (including the Downtown Berkeley Arts
District) and within 25 feet of doorways and windows of any
building open to the public.
Coat Check
Berkeley Rep usually offers a free coat-check service during
cold and rainy months. Patrons with large items may leave
them at the Coat Check station in the lobby. We do not
accept responsibility for items lost or stolen.
Parking Validation
Berkeley Rep has partnered with Allston Way Garage to
offer Berkeley Rep patrons $3 parking after 6pm on
weekdays and all day Saturday and Sunday. Allston Way
Garage is located at 2061 Allston Way, between Milvia and
Shattuck. After 6pm, you’ll need to enter the garage from
the entrance on the south side of Center Street, next door to
Berkeley City College. Bring your garage ticket to the
theatre lobby and self-validate with a garage stamp. After
the play, show your ticket to the garage attendant.
We recommend the Promenade Garage to for weekday
matinee patrons. Patrons park for only $5 after 1pm. The
garage closes at 7pm. No validation necessary! The garage is
located just one block west of the theatre at 1936 Addison
Street, between MLK Jr. Way and Milvia.
Please note: we do not validate parking for the Center
Street Garage, located on the north side of the street. We
cannot accept responsibility for any parking mishaps or fees
accidentally incurred from parking in the wrong location.
Blankets
Some seats in the Thrust are drafty. Berkeley Rep has
blankets available for patrons who desire them. Blankets are
stored behind the Assisted Listening Devices at both
venues. Patrons may check a blanket out with a photo ID or
credit card.
General Admission (GA) & Walk-In Tickets
When we are sold-out of all assigned seats, we sell a limited
number of discounted GA tickets. These tickets are handled
in the same way as the “walk-in” privilege that Berkeley Rep
offers as a professional courtesy to certain arts
organizations. So as to not throw off the seat counts, these
patrons receive tickets that do not include a seat or row
5

number. Walk-in and GA patrons are seated shortly before
curtain by the house manager to fill in any gaps in the best
available areas. Ushers should wait until directed to find a
seat by the house manager so that the walk-in and GA
patrons may be seated with ease and speed.
Standing Room Only (SRO)
If the Roda Theatre is sold out, SRO ticket holders may
position themselves only in the SRO section at the rear of
the house. (Should there be available seating, SRO patrons
may take available seats after the house manager seats
walk-in or GA patrons.)
Fragrances
Fragrances, if used, must not be so strong as to call
attention to you in a closed elevator or from any nearby seat
in the house.
Volunteer Basics
All new ushers—series and substitute—must attend one
orientation. You do not need to RSVP. Location is subject to
change. Ushers must be 18 years of age or older. Ushers
must also be able to respond quickly in case of emergency
(see Emergency Procedures below) because the number one
priority for ushers is the safety of our patrons.
Dress Code
The purpose of having a dress code is to ensure that our
usher staff is both professionally and distinctively dressed. It
is important to be easily identifiable as representing the
Theatre. The dress code is solid black dress slacks
or a solid black dress skirt, and a solid white
blouse or shirt with sleeves. Please keep accessories
such as scarves and large jewelry to a minimum. On cold
days, a professional plain black or white jacket or sweater
may be worn. Ties are optional, and must be appropriate for
work. All ushers are expected to wear plain black,
closed-toe dress shoes. No sneakers, flip-flops,
sandals, or boots allowed! Wear shoes that you can
stand in for four hours and do a lot of walking up and down
the aisles. All clothing must be clean and ironed. Mini-skirts,
T-shirts, and jeans are not appropriate work attire, even if
they are the right color. If you’re not in proper dress,
you will not be permitted to usher. Each usher must
also bring with them a small flashlight.
Attendance and Punctuality
Berkeley Rep depends upon its ushers! It is vital that ushers
arrive on time and ready to work. The house manager will
lead a pre-show orientation to relay information regarding
the performance. You will not be able to meet the
expectations of your job if you do not know this
information. If you are tardy, you may not be permitted to
work, and it will count as a no-show. After two no-shows,
you will be asked not to return and your scheduled shift will
be given to the next usher on the waiting list.
Call Time
Call time is 6:30pm for an 8pm curtain, 5:30pm for a 7pm
curtain, and 12:30pm for a 2pm curtain. House Manager will
open lobby doors for ushers 15 minutes before call time. If
you arrive early, please wait patiently. Never ask Box Office
or other employees to let you into theater or courtyard. HM
will open doors when ready. The house manager starts
orientation 1½ hours before curtain. The house manager
assigns usher posts on a first-come, first-served basis.
Orientation takes about 15 minutes. Ushers arriving after
orientation may still be permitted to sign in but will be
marked as tardy. Ushers arriving after that will be sent
home. If there is program stuffing or other business, it is
done then. The concessions counter opens after orientation,
at the house manager’s announcement. Any remaining time
before the lobby opens one hour prior to curtain is break
time for ushers to purchase concessions at a half-price
discount, use the facilities, etc.
Storing and securing your belongings
Please turn off cell phones when you enter the
building. They must remain off until final curtain.
For emergency use only, please give friends and
family the HM cell phone numbers: 510 812-8446
(Roda) or 510 812-8447 (Thrust). Everyone is required
to lock up their belongings in the usher lockers located in
the Thrust.
After the lobby opens
When the lobby opens, you must be at your post and ready.
This is not a time to eat, sit, or read. The house is off-limits
until the stage manager gives the okay. This means you may
not go in to look at the seats. All volunteers should be
familiar with emergency policies; the locations of restrooms,
water fountains, etc.; and the information in this handbook.
The house manager will visit all volunteers at their posts,
give any additional information, and answer questions.
Intermission and Post-Show requirements
As a Berkeley Rep usher, you are required to return to your
post at intermission and see your post through to
completion after final curtain.
Food and Beverage
Ushers may consume food and beverage, including alcohol
in moderation, until the lobby opens. All food and drink
consumption must cease after the lobby opens to patrons.
Savory plates are not for sale to ushers due to large
preparation. Ushers receive the staff discount—half-price—
6

at the concessions counter. The concession discount is a
perk and not guaranteed. Drinks and snacks are available IF
there is time before the lobby opens and IF the
concessionaires are ready early. All at the discretion of
the house manager.
Theatre Store
Ushers receive the staff discount—20% off—in the Berkeley
Rep theatre store.
Working with the House Manager
The house manger will tell you when the lobby, concessions
counter, and house open, and when you may be seated. At
the end of the show, please do not leave without signing out
with the house manager.
Attitude and Conduct
Our volunteer ushers are the only faces of Berkeley Rep that
most patrons see. Ushers represent Berkeley Rep’s highest
ideal of delivering a unique and superior experience to its
guests. Ushers are expected to hold themselves to the
highest standard of behavior when interacting with each
other and patrons. Ushers are always expected to carry out
their duties with courtesy.
Usher Survey
All ushers are required to complete our online usher survey
annually.
7

Volunteer Usher Posts
Doors
Door ushers stand at the entry doors to the house and hand
out programs, answer questions, keep food out, and guide
patrons to their seats. You should be friendly, able to climb
stairs, and have good eyesight to read tickets. Please show
patrons to their seats; do not just stand and point. If a
ticketing conflict arises, get the house manager to resolve
the issue. Many times, our subscribers change their dates
and may sit in their “usual seats” whether they are actually
ticketed in those seats or not. Please always use tact and get
the house manager without delay! At intermission, ushers
stay at the doors, help with late seating, and keep people
from bringing food into the house. At the end of a
performance, please help pick up programs and look for lost
items. In case of emergency, please return to your post and
hold your door open for patrons. (When the fire alarm goes
off, the doors shut automatically so that oxygen can’t spread
the fire.) In the Thrust, the door stops may be used.
Tickets
Ticket ushers stand at the front door of the Theatre to tear
tickets, greet patrons, and direct them to the proper entry
door. Ticket ushers must be friendly and fast! You should
have sharp eyesight for reading tickets. Please check date,
time, and performance. When tearing tickets, ushers should
tear the right-hand, smaller portion of the ticket, giving the
patron back the larger, left-hand portion. Think of it as “we
get what’s right, they get what’s left,” or “we get the small,
they get the big.” As you tear the ticket, politely direct the
patron to the proper door. All tickets have the door printed
on them. For example: “Hello, how are you? Let’s see… you’ll
be going to Door Two today. Enjoy the show.” At the end of
the performance, please help pick up programs and look for
lost items.
Assisted Listening Station
The ALD usher works inside the house manager’s office,
providing Assisted Listening Devices (ALDs) to hearingimpaired
patrons, checking bags, issuing blankets and firstaid
medications, and answering questions. You should be
patient and friendly. Patrons may be hearing-impaired, so
please use tact, face the patron when speaking, and speak
clearly when delivering instructions on proper use of the
devices. Be polite and patient and explain things as often as
necessary. The house manager can give you a handout on
ALDs. You must be back in the booth at intermission. At the
end of the evening, please clean all returned headsets.
Theatre Store
The theatre store usher sells merchandise and answers
questions. You should be friendly, enjoy sales, and be good
with math and handling money. A separate orientation is
given for this post. The shop is open at intermission as well
as post-show.
Programs
This volunteer stands behind the ticket takers and (1) hands
out programs with a smile, (2) gets the house manager as
needed, and (3) replaces the ticket-taker as needed. At
intermission, make sure there is no smoking in the
courtyard. At the end of the performance, please help pick
up programs and look for lost items. This is the first job to
be dropped if we are understaffed.
Stage Monitors
At some events, it may be necessary to assign ushers to
monitor the entrances to the stage, backstage areas, or
stage-door stairs. Ushers assigned to this duty should be
able to be firmly polite with patrons, and comfortable
dealing with the public.
Other Posts
Sometimes we have other posts open for one night or for
the run of one show. Most jobs involve the movement of
people, passing out something, sales, or standing near the
box office to welcome or direct patrons. Other posts may be
assigned by the house manager as needed. All ushers should
be prepared to work in any capacity. The house manager
may assign posts on a first-come, first-served basis, as need
dictates. Usually, you may choose your post on the sign-in
sheet when you arrive at the Theatre.
There are a limited number of usher
opportunities for persons who are physically
challenged. Please inquire at
ushers@berkeleyrep.org.
Requirements
1. With the exception of physically challenged ushers
for whom Berkeley Rep is able to make an
accommodation, volunteers must be capable of
administering the duties of all positions. Physical
requirements include, but are not limited to,
carrying up to 15 pounds, walking up and down
staircases, and standing for long periods of time.
Usher assignments can be changed at the house
manager’s discretion.
2. Ushers are expected to stay through entire
performance and complete all tasks.
8

3. Volunteer ushers are not guaranteed a seat.
4. Volunteers may not usher more than three times
per production.
5. Berkeley Rep reserves the right to appoint and
terminate volunteer ushers at will.
9

Emergency Procedures
In General
Our gathering place after evacuating either theatre is Gecko
Gecko at the corner of Addison and Milvia (take a right out
the front door and cross Addison at Milvia). Should you hear
an announcement asking you to evacuate the Theatre, do
so—but assist any patrons with mobility impairments if
needed. Should you hear an announcement indicating that
we will be having an unexpected intermission or that we will
be temporarily holding the performance, return to your
posts.
Should any patron need medical assistance or first aid, find
the house manager immediately. Should any patron disturb
the performance in a manner that requires attention, find
the house manager immediately. In all instances, ushers
should remain calm and follow the announcements and
house manager’s instructions, placing your own safety first.
If you feel you are in a life-threatening situation, please
remove yourself from that situation.
• To reach 911 from Berkeley Rep phones, you must dial 9-
911. Landlines are located in the Roda and Thrust house
manager’s offices. It is preferable to call 911 from a
landline, as calling from your cell phone automatically
dispatches you to California Highway Patrol rather than
the local police.
• Ushers are expected to assist patrons, especially
patrons with mobility issues, in exiting the Theatre.
Please make sure to return walkers and wheelchairs to
patrons.
• Do not leave the Theatre without signing out with the
house manager.
• When in doubt, return to your posts for instructions.
• If you have first-aid training, please notify the house
manager when you sign in.
• A wheelchair is available on the third floor of the Roda.
Press 1-1-1 in the elevator for access to the third floor.
• A folding cot is available on the second-floor hall of the
Roda.
• First-aid kits are available at both ALD stations, as well
as ordinary medications for heartburn, bandages,
ointments, painkillers, and ice packs. Blankets are also
available there.
Minor accidents and falls
Ushers should stay with the injured person and send
another usher—or patron, if necessary—to get the house
manager. If the patron insists that he or she does not need
assistance but appears injured, simply note the patron’s
appearance and where the patron is sitting, and report the
incident to the house manager immediately. There is an
accident report that the house manager must have the
patron fill out. Should a patron request pain killers, a
bandage, an antacid, diarrhea medication, or cold
medication, those items are available at the ALD station.
Any requests for these items should be directed to the
house manager or, if need be, the ALD usher.
Medical emergency
In case of heart attack, stroke, seizure, or medical
emergency, notify the house manager immediately. If it is
during the performance, the stage manager will make the
following announcement: “Ladies and Gentlemen, we are
experiencing a medical emergency. Would individuals with
medical training please identify themselves to the house
manager in the (lobby/house)?” If possible the house
manager will move the person either to the lobby, or, if the
situation warrants, into the theatre store and roll the door
down. If there is a trained medical professional in the
audience, do exactly as instructed. Return to posts and
await instruction from the house manager.
Earthquake
In the event of an earthquake, the following announcement
will be made: “Ladies and gentlemen, we are experiencing an
earthquake. For your protection, bend forward and cover
your head with your arms until the earthquake passes.
Remain in your seats. For your own safety, do not leave the
building.” Once the quake subsides, this announcement will
be made: “Ladies and gentlemen, our backstage crew is
making a thorough check of the scenery to be certain there
is no risk to patrons or staff. We thank you for your
patience.” At that point, ushers should return to their posts,
await instructions from the house manager, and calm
patrons as needed. Theatre store and all ushers should go to
Doors 1 or 2. If the show will not continue, the following
announcement will be made: “Ladies and gentlemen, due to
possible hazards backstage to the cast and crew, Berkeley
Repertory Theatre will not continue this performance.
Please call the box office within 48 hours to reschedule or
receive a refund.” In the event of a severe earthquake, the
park at Center Street and Martin Luther King, Jr. Way is a
designated Red Cross aid station.
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Fire
An alarm with a recorded announcement will sound. The
house manager will silence these, and an announcement will
be made by the stage manager: “Ladies and gentlemen, we
have a problem backstage. For your safety, please calmly
stand, exit the Theatre by the (side / rear / all exits), and
help those who may need assistance. We will resume the
performance if possible. Announcements will be made
outside shortly.” Ushers should assist patrons in exiting the
Theatre. Follow patrons out of the building, assemble at
Gecko Gecko, and report to the house manager. Beware of
arriving fire trucks. The house manager will use a
megaphone to make any announcements as needed, such as
making patrons aware the show may resume if the incident
is minor. Do not attempt to re-enter the building unless the
house manager gives the “all clear.”
Power Outage
In the event of a power outage, the following announcement
will be made: “Ladies and gentlemen, we are experiencing a
power outage. We will resume the performance when power
is restored. Please remain in your seats and see an usher if
you need assistance.” Ushers should turn on
flashlights (available in the house manager’s
office, though we encourage you to bring your
own), take their posts, and assist patrons as
needed. If the power outage lasts 30 minutes or more, we
will likely cancel the performance. Should management
cancel the performance, the stage manager will make the
following announcement: “Ladies and gentlemen, due to the
continued power outage this (evenings / afternoon’s)
performance is cancelled. Please call the box office within
48 hours to reschedule.” Ushers should then be ready to
assist patrons in exiting the Theatre. After the patrons have
left the building, see the house manager to sign out. Note:
the emergency power back-up systems will provide full
power for 45 minutes.
Bomb Threat
In the event of a bomb threat, the house lights will be
brought up and the following announcement will be made
by the stage manager: “Ladies and gentlemen, we have a
problem backstage. For your safety, at this time, could
everyone please stand up and exit the Theatre? Please help
those who may need assistance as you exit. Thank you.”
Ushers should prop open doors and follow patrons out of
the building. Assemble at Gecko Gecko and report to the
house manager. The house manager will use the megaphone
to make any announcements, such as making patrons aware
the show may resume if the incident is minor. If the show
resumes, the ushers will return to posts and begin seating
patrons when directed by the house manager.
Civil Disorder/Riots
Should the city of Berkeley experience some form of civil
unrest, the following announcement will be made: “Your
attention please: the City of Berkeley police department has
announced a possible civil disturbance. To protect the
premises and reduce danger to patrons, staff, and property,
all entry doors are locked. For your own protection please
remain inside. We will keep you updated as events transpire.
Once again, the exterior doors are locked, and we ask that
you remain inside.” Ushers should return to their posts to
assist the house manager. Follow directions and assist as
needed. Be ready to call 911 in the event of trouble.
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Yahoo Bulletin Board
How to Register:
All approved ushers/subs are required to have
access to this group site
1. Go to http://groups.yahoo.com/group/brtushers/
via your internet browser and click on "join this
group" then click on "Sign up now"
2. Yahoo ID: enter your name so that you can be
identified on the database
3. Enter a password, and re-type in the next space
also; remember this password!
4. In the drop-down menu uncheck "activate yahoo
mail" if you don’t wish to receive every posting. You
have several options for receiving e-mails. You can
opt to get everything, nothing, summaries, or
special notices. I suggest that you check "Special
Notices" so that you receive important BRT news
and ushering opportunities in other venues.
Remember to check the site from time to time for
other postings. If you are a sub, you must select "all
e-mails."
Note that Yahoo automatically gives you a Yahoo email
address. If you do not wish to use this Yahoo account, be
sure to type in your preferred email address.
1. Fill out rest of questionnaire. In the "message"
section, be sure to indicate your name and that you
are an approved BRT series usher or sub. If your
message is ambiguous, you will not be approved. All
approved newcomers must attend an annual
orientation meeting, sign a Letter of Agreement,
and be signed up for a series, or be specially
approved for a limited sub list.
2. Uncheck "Send me special offers" if you're not
interested in Yahoo ads.
3. Enter the word as it is shown in the box and submit
this form.
4. You are now pending. Once approval is granted,
you are a member of brtushers.
Now you can log on. When you log on, you can see the site,
but you cannot use it. You must SIGN IN; submit your
yahoo ID and password EACH TIME you sign in. When you
have completed the transaction, remember to SIGN OUT.
This prevents unauthorized messages from being posted in
your name.
Protocols for Using this Site:
1. You will find a toolbar on the left side. If you wish to
read existing messages, click on "messages." You can
"reply" to the posted messages to make an
arrangement. Enter your message, scroll to bottom,
click on "Send." Note: Reply directly to the person who
posted the message. Do not respond to the Yahoo
Site. If you do, your response goes out to 900 people,
most of whom don't want to know. Unless otherwise
specified, all messages posted on this site are in-house
only; you are not to duplicate or forward any message
posted on this site, unless you are specifically permitted
to do so.
If you wish to post a message, click on "post." Subject
headings are important. Suggested subject
heading: "2 subs needed, name of play, date of play." In
the message, list details, call time, venue, how to
contact you. Click "Send" on the right hand side. Post
your message only ONCE. Do not post a message more
than 2 months in advance of your date.
2. When your transaction is completed, or if you
made a mistake, or want to make a new
posting, please delete your original message.
3. When you are finished, click on "Sign Out" near top of
page.
4. If you wish to change your email address, go to the site,
sign in, and click on "edit membership."
If you opt out of the BRT usher program, remember to
unsubscribe. To unsubscribe from this group, send email to
brtushers-unsubscribe@yahoogroups.com.
Season Ushers
When you need a sub or swap, scan the site before you make
a posting. There are usually several postings already made
by people who wish to swap, and you can contact them
directly. When you complete a transaction, note the name of
your sub, in case he/she does not show up. If you’re
concerned that your sub may not have shown up, it’s okay to
contact your sub afterward to double-check. You will not be
penalized by the house manager as a no-show, if your sub
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fails to show, as long as you can identify who your sub or
swap was.
Respond promptly to ALL ushers who reply to your posting,
so that they know the need has been filled. Do not post
on the site that you have found a sub. Do not post
on the site that you are available to sub. We need to
keep the bulletin board free of extraneous postings; there
are sometimes two productions running simultaneously, and
the board can be filled quickly.
Deleting Your Message
Delete your posting when the transaction is completed or
obsolete. Delete your posting from the site by returning to
the message board (sign in, click on “messages”). Find your
message, click on “delete.” You then get a second “are you
sure” message, and click on “delete” again. Your message is
automatically removed from the board, making room for
new ones.
Substitute Ushers
This site provides you with a method for locating available
dates. When you agree to sub for someone, consider that a
commitment. When you sign the roster at the time of the
performance, be sure to indicate the person for whom you
are subbing. Please never post your availability. If you have
agreed to sub or swap with a series usher, you now own that
date; if you, in turn, need to find another sub or swap, it is
up to you to do so; in that case, be sure to inform your sub
who the original usher was, so that he/she can sign the
roster appropriately.
There is no need to notify the House Manager of these
transactions. The system is designed to be selfmaintaining.
All substitute ushers must choose from the
ranks of the existing usher pool. You must not send a non-
Berkeley Rep usher in your place.
Word of Caution
Although there are safeguards, spam occasionally finds its
way onto the site, usually when your address book has been
hijacked and you have failed to sign out. Do not open
any attachments nor click on any links, if the
subject heading is absent or suspicious
If all else fails, contact me at mar26nel@Lmi.net. My Yahoo
alias is mandnushers.
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Usher Agreement Letter
I, the undersigned, do hereby acknowledge that I have received, read, agree to and abide by the policies, guidelines, and
procedures outlined in my volunteer usher guidebook. I understand that I have made a commitment to Berkeley Rep, and I will
fulfill my commitment to work as a (check one):
Season Usher Usher series:__________ Substitute Usher
I agree to follow the policies and guidelines detailed in this handbook when working at Berkeley Rep and willingly accept the
consequences of failure to do so, which may include refusal of my services as a volunteer and dismissal from the usher program at
Berkeley Rep.
I further acknowledge that I understand how to contact the house manager during the season.
I also willingly disclose my mailing address, email address, phone number, and name to the house manager at Berkeley Rep for the
explicit purposes of facilitating my role as a volunteer usher. I sign this form with the understanding that this information will
remain confidential and will not be used for any purpose that is not directly related to my involvement with Berkeley Rep.
NAME
ADDRESS APT
CITY STATE ZIP
HOME PHONE WORK PHONE CELL PHONE
EMAIL (BE SURE TO NOTIFY THE HOUSE MANAGER IF YOU CHANGE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS)
EMERGENCY CONTACT RELATIONSHIP TO YOU
EMERGENCY CONTACT HOME PHONE WORK PHONE CELL PHONE
What year did you start ushering for Berkeley Rep? ______________________________________________________________________________
Can we call you as a last-minute sub? Yes No
SIGNATURE OF VOLUNTEER USHER DATE
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